Summer Lentil Salad with Corn, Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil

Summer Lentil Salad with Corn, Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil is not only a delightful dish but also a nutritious option for warm weather gatherings. This vibrant salad brings together protein-packed lentils, sweet roasted corn, juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a light lunch, this salad shines on any table. With its unique blend of flavors and textures, it’s sure to impress your guests while keeping things healthy and fresh.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein from lentils and mozzarella, this salad keeps you satisfied.
• Fresh Ingredients: Enjoy the bright flavors of summer with fresh corn, tomatoes, and basil.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or a side dish—perfect for any occasion.
• Quick to Prepare: With just 35 minutes from start to finish, it’s an easy recipe to whip up.
• Flavorful Vinaigrette: The homemade vinaigrette adds zest and complements the ingredients beautifully.

Tools and Preparation

Making Summer Lentil Salad requires some essential tools to ensure everything runs smoothly in your kitchen. Having the right equipment will make preparation easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large bowl
• Medium saucepan
• Colander
• Jar with a tight-fitting lid
• Large pan

Importance of Each Tool

• Large bowl: Ideal for mixing all ingredients without spilling.
• Medium saucepan: Perfect for cooking lentils evenly without overcrowding.
• Colander: Ensures thorough rinsing of lentils and draining after cooking.
• Jar with a tight-fitting lid: Great for shaking the vinaigrette to combine flavors.

Ingredients

For the Vinaigrette

• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil (or another neutral-flavored oil, such as sunflower)
• 2 tablespoons red apple vinegar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon finely minced fresh basil
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed/finely minced garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

For the Salad

• 1 cup green lentils
• 2 ounces thinly sliced prosciutto
• 2 cups fresh corn kernels (cooked & sliced from the cob)
• 2 cups (about 10 ounces) grape OR cherry tomatoes (halved or quartered)
• 8 ounces mini fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine sized)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (sliced in a chiffonade)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Summer Lentil Salad with Corn, Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil

Step 1: Make the Vinaigrette

To create the vinaigrette:
1. Combine the olive oil, red apple vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced basil, garlic, salt, and pepper in a jar.
2. Secure the lid tightly and shake vigorously until well mixed. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Lentils

Prepare the lentils by following these steps:
1. Rinse them in cool water using a colander.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil.
3. Add the rinsed lentils to boiling water. Reduce heat to simmer and cover.
4. Cook for 15 to 20 minutes until tender but not mushy.
5. Drain in a colander and toss with salt for seasoning. Set aside to cool.

Step 3: Crisp the Prosciutto

For crispy prosciutto:
1. Heat a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add slices of prosciutto in a single layer; cook for 3 to 5 minutes on each side until crisped up.
3. Remove prosciutto to a paper-towel lined plate to cool down.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

Combine all ingredients:
1. In a large bowl, layer the cooked lentils, corn kernels, sliced tomatoes, mini mozzarella balls, and chiffonade basil.
2. Shake the vinaigrette again before drizzling it over the salad.
3. Gently toss everything together until combined.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for at least an hour for enhanced flavor absorption before serving.

This Summer Lentil Salad with Corn, Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil is ready to be enjoyed!

How to Serve Summer Lentil Salad with Corn, Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil

This vibrant Summer Lentil Salad is not only delicious but also versatile. It can be served in various ways, making it perfect for any occasion. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

As a Main Dish

• Enjoy this salad as a satisfying main course. Its hearty ingredients, like lentils and prosciutto, provide ample protein and flavor.

As a Side Dish

• Pair this salad with grilled meats or fish. The fresh flavors complement rich dishes beautifully.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Serve the salad in large lettuce leaves for a refreshing twist. This makes for a fun and healthy appetizer or snack.

Topped with Avocado

• Add slices of avocado on top for creaminess. This addition elevates the dish, making it even more enjoyable.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with extra basil or other fresh herbs before serving. This enhances the aroma and visual appeal of the salad.

Chilled for Hot Days

• Refrigerate the salad before serving on hot days. A cold dish is refreshing and perfect for summer gatherings.

How to Perfect Summer Lentil Salad with Corn, Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil

Creating the perfect Summer Lentil Salad is easy with these simple tips. Follow these guidelines to ensure your dish is always delightful.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn and ripe tomatoes will enhance the flavor of your salad significantly.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your vinaigrette before adding it to the salad. Adjust salt and pepper to suit your preference.
• Mix Gently: When combining ingredients, mix gently to avoid breaking the mozzarella balls.
• Chill Before Serving: Allow the salad to sit in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving; this lets the flavors meld beautifully.
• Experiment with Proteins: Feel free to swap out prosciutto for chicken or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
• Add Crunch: For extra texture, consider adding nuts like toasted pine nuts or walnuts right before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Summer Lentil Salad with Corn, Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil

This Summer Lentil Salad pairs well with several side dishes that can complement its flavors. Here are some great options you can consider:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinate chicken pieces in herbs and spices before grilling them; they make a great protein addition.
2. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread brushed with garlic butter adds a crunchy contrast to the soft salad elements.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized bring depth and heartiness to your meal.
4. Quinoa Pilaf: A lemony quinoa pilaf serves as a nutritious side that aligns well with lentils.
5. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil offer similar flavors that harmonize beautifully.
6. Crispy Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges baked until crispy provide a comforting side with every bite.
7. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and is excellent for balancing richer dishes.
8. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can refresh your palate between bites of savory dishes and add brightness to your table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Summer Lentil Salad with Corn, Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your salad turns out perfectly.

• Ignoring the lentil cooking time: Cooking lentils too long can lead to mushiness. Keep an eye on them and start checking at 15 minutes for the perfect texture.
• Using stale ingredients: Freshness matters! Ensure your tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella are fresh for the best flavor and texture. Check expiration dates before use.
• Overdressing the salad: It’s tempting to pour on extra dressing, but too much can overwhelm the flavors. Start with a small amount and add more if needed after tasting.
• Not cooling the lentils: If you add warm lentils directly to the salad, they can wilt fresh ingredients. Allow them to cool before combining.
• Forgetting about seasoning: Seasoning is key! Always taste your salad before serving and adjust salt and pepper as necessary for full flavor.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Separate the prosciutto if possible to maintain its crispiness.

Freezing Summer Lentil Salad with Corn, Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil

• This salad is not ideal for freezing due to the fresh ingredients.
• If you must freeze it, omit the mozzarella and prosciutto before freezing.
• Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Summer Lentil Salad with Corn, Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread salad on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and cover. Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed throughout.
• Stovetop: Warm in a pan over low heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Summer Lentil Salad with Corn, Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil ahead of time?

Yes! This salad is great when made ahead. Just keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

What can I substitute for mozzarella in Summer Lentil Salad?

You can use feta cheese or goat cheese as alternatives. Both will add a nice creamy texture.

How do I store leftover Summer Lentil Salad with Corn, Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil?

Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I customize my Summer Lentil Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers, or swap out herbs based on your preference.

Is this Summer Lentil Salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes! It’s perfect for meal prep due to its hearty ingredients that hold up well over several days.

Final Thoughts

This Summer Lentil Salad with Corn, Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil is not only packed with flavor but also offers versatility as both a main or side dish. Its vibrant colors and textures make it visually appealing as well. Don’t hesitate to customize it according to your taste preferences or seasonal ingredients available! Enjoy this healthy dish any time of year!